Talk to us – a guide for young people
This leaflet explains to young patients what they can talk to their GP about and that the information is kept confidential.
Talk to us – a guide for parents and carers
This leaflet lets parents and carers know that young people can come to the GP on their own, or with a friend, and that the GP will keep that information confidential, similar to any other patient. Both leaflets are free to download and there is space on both for practice details.
My CAMHS Choices is a website created by young people with experience of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), it features video interviews with real clinicians and young people.
Choosing What’s Best For You is a colourful and vibrant site aimed at young people and explains what evidence is behind treatment options for young people for a range of mental health issues.
YoungMinds is the UK’s leading charity committed to improving the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people. They provide expert knowledge and resources for young people, their parents and professionals through a Parents’ Helpline, online resources, training and development, outreach work and publications.
In 2001 there were an estimated 175,000 young carers in the UK, with around a third caring for a person with a mental illness. It is likely the actual number is higher and research has suggested that around a third of young carers are involved in inappropriate and excessive caring with consequent knock-on effects on schooling and other key areas of their lives.
Devon Carers has a specialist team who work with young carers, addressing the needs of young people providing care and support to other family members, primarily a parent or a sibling. Young carers are put in a position of great responsibility at a very young age; dealing with situations that many adults would find a challenge. These children and young people have to cope in difficult circumstances, often not only looking after their relative but also helping to bring up siblings and run a household.
Devon Carers provides a consistent approach to the way in which young carers are supported across Devon. The types of services young carers currently benefit from include:
- Respite activities, including residential weekends
- Drop-ins/ Clubs
- School clubs
- Family support
- Advocacy
- Information and signposting
- Counselling
- Transport to and from activities
To find out what is on offer for young carers, aged 5 to 18 years, in your area or to make a referral please contact Devon Carers on 08456 434 435
